Help - LR Defender Orignal Rear Step

[Taipan]

In the current LR Defender Accessories Broucher it has the following;

Rear Step Bumper
This versatile Rear Step Bumper makes access to the load space easy as well as offering added protection from minor knocks, and also incorporates a regulation tow bracket. Rear Step Bumper, 110 models STC50301

My Question is does anyone know why LR Australia doesn't supply these rear steps and what would be the best way to buy & import here in sydney. Has anyone got one already and how are they compared to others in the aus market.

[Tusker]

Don't know, there's a lot of stuff we don't get. If you've got time to waste, track down the reinforced rear cross member in the catalogue- turns out its a UK military only thing.

Anyway, my guess is the the UK towbar fitting inherent in this step would need to be upgraded to meet our ADRs. But that's only a guess.

Begs the question then why there isn't a version sans towbar. Maybe not compatible with an Ozzie towbar? Who knows.

Regards
Max P

[Phoenix]

Looks like what went on the NAS 90's! Some other companies like equipe make some similar bars that you might be able to get from an australian supplier.

[JDNSW]

The simple answer is; with the small number of Defenders sold here, the cost of proving compliance with ADRs, even if no changes were needed, would make them so expensive that they would be unsaleable. And if changes were needed (most likely even if only the mandatory labelling) costs would soar even further.

One of the reasons for having a Landrover pre the date of tow bar legislation, I think early nineties!

John

[Scallops]

I also asked about this - and tried to order it with mine.

My dealer told me they don't pass Australian "regulations" - so LRA are not permitted by law to fit them.

[CraigE]

Make one.
When time and money permit I am going to. Basically will make up 2 brackets with some bent chequer plate into a channel shape the same as the rear cross member.
A Cad drawing may be required and laser cut sheets bent and then welded would be good.

[JDNSW]

Make one.
.........

If it actually incorporates a tow bar, it will require engineering approval as far as I can see. If it is only a step, it probably will not.

John

[CraigE]

If it actually incorporates a tow bar, it will require engineering approval as far as I can see. If it is only a step, it probably will not.

John

John,
Only thinking of a step to be made around existing tow bar, so AFAIK does not require engineering.

[rar110]

what about the OEM fold down type step. Nice and simple, and it folds up out of the way.

[JDNSW]

John,
Only thinking of a step to be made around existing tow bar, so AFAIK does not require engineering.

Yes, as I understand it, that would be right. (assuming it is not a danger to pedestrians!)

John